Evaluation of the accuracy of intraoral scanners for complete-arch scanning: A systematic review and network meta-analysis

Evaluating the influence of palate scanning on the accuracy of complete-arch digital impressions-An in vitro study

OBJECTIVES

To assess the impact of including the palate and the number of images recorded during intraoral digital scanning procedure on the accuracy of complete arch scans.

METHODS

An experienced operator conducted 40 digital scans of a 3D printed maxillary model and divided them into two groups: 20 with inclusion of the palate (PAL) and 20 without (NPAL). Each set of scans was performed using an intraoral scanner (IOS) (Trios 5; 3Shape A/S; Copenhagen, Denmark). The resulting STL files were imported into the Geomagic Control X software (3D Systems, Rock Hill, SC, USA) for accuracy comparison. A reference STL file was created using a 3Shape E3 laboratory scanner (3Shape Scanlt Dental 2.2.1.0; Copenhagen, Denmark). The number of images captured was recorded during the scanning procedure.

RESULTS

In the case of the right side no statistically significant difference in trueness was detected (84 µm ± 45.6 for PAL and 80.4 ± 40.4 µm for NPAL). In the case of the left side no significant difference in trueness was observed (215.1 ± 70.2 µm for PAL and 233.9 ± 70.7 µm for NPAL). In the case of the arch distortion a statistically significant difference in trueness was seen between the two types of scans (135.3 ± 71.9 µm for PAL and 380.4 ± 255.1 µm for NPAL). The average number of images was 831.25, and 593.8 for PAL and NPAL, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Scanning of the palatal area can significantly improve the accuracy of dental scans in cases of complete arches. In terms of the number of images, based on the current results, obvious conclusions could not be drawn, and further investigation is required.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Scanning the palate may be beneficial for improving the accuracy of intraoral scans in dentate patients. Consequently, this should be linked to an appropriate scanning strategy that predicts palatal scanning.

Impact of the superimposition methods and the designated comparison area on accuracy analyses in dentate models

OBJECTIVES

To measure the impact of superimposition methods and the designated comparison area on accuracy analyses of dentate models using an ISO-recommended 3-dimensional (3D) metrology-grade inspection software (Geomagic Control X; 3D Systems; Rock Hill, South Carolina; USA).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A dentate maxillary typodont scanned with a desktop scanner (E4; 3 Shape; Copenhagen; Denmark) and an intraoral scanner (Trios 4; 3 Shape; Copenhagen; Denmark) was used as reference. Eight groups were created based on the core features of each superimposition method: landmark-based alignment (G1); partial area-based alignment (G2); entire tooth area-based alignment (G3); double alignment combining landmark-based alignment with entire tooth area-based alignment (G4); double alignment combining partial area-based alignment with entire tooth area-based alignment (G5); initial automated quick pre-alignment (G6); initial automated precise pre-alignment (G7); and entire model area-based alignment (G8). Diverse variations of each alignment and two regions for accuracy analyses (teeth surface or full model surface) were tested, resulting in a total of thirty-two subgroups (n = 18). The alignment accuracy between experimental and reference meshes was quantified using root mean square (RMS) error as trueness and its repeatability as precision. The descriptive statistics, a factorial repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) and a post hoc Tuckey multiple comparison tests were used to analyze the trueness, and precision (α = 0.05).

RESULTS

A total of 576 superimpositions were performed. The unique partial area-based superimposition method demonstrated the least precise alignment and was the sole group to exhibit a significant difference (p<.001). Automated initial pre-alignments demonstrated similar accuracy to other superimposition methods (p>.05). Double alignments did not result in accuracy improvement (p>.05). The designated comparison area displayed differences in both trueness (p<.001) and precision (p<.001), leading to an overall discrepancy of 8 ± 4 μm between selecting the teeth surface or full model surface.

CONCLUSIONS

The superimposition method choice within the tested software did not impact accuracy analyses, except when the alignment relies on a unique and reduced area, such as the palatal rugae, a single tooth, or three adjacent teeth on one side.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

The superimposition method choice within the tested ISO-recommended 3D inspection software did not impact accuracy analyses.

Recent Advances in Digital Technology in Implant Dentistry

Digital technology has emerged as a transformative tool in dental implantation, profoundly enhancing accuracy and effectiveness across multiple facets, such as diagnosis, preoperative treatment planning, surgical procedures, and restoration delivery. The multiple integration of radiographic data and intraoral data, sometimes with facial scan data or electronic facebow through virtual planning software, enables comprehensive 3-dimensional visualization of the hard and soft tissue and the position of future restoration, resulting in heightened diagnostic precision. In virtual surgery design, the incorporation of both prosthetic arrangement and individual anatomical details enables the virtual execution of critical procedures (e.g., implant placement, extended applications, etc.) through analysis of cross-sectional images and the reconstruction of 3-dimensional surface models. After verification, the utilization of digital technology including templates, navigation, combined techniques, and implant robots achieved seamless transfer of the virtual treatment plan to the actual surgical sites, ultimately leading to enhanced surgical outcomes with highly improved accuracy. In restoration delivery, digital techniques for impression, shade matching, and prosthesis fabrication have advanced, enabling seamless digital data conversion and efficient communication among clinicians and technicians. Compared with clinical medicine, artificial intelligence (AI) technology in dental implantology primarily focuses on diagnosis and prediction. AI-supported preoperative planning and surgery remain in developmental phases, impeded by the complexity of clinical cases and ethical considerations, thereby constraining widespread adoption.

Impact of the superimposition methods on accuracy analyses in complete-arch digital implant investigation

OBJECTIVES

To measure the impact of the superimposition methods on accuracy analyses in digital implant research using an ISO-recommended 3-dimensional (3D) metrology-grade inspection software.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A six-implant edentulous maxillary model was scanned using a desktop scanner (7Series; DentalWings; Montreal, Canada) and an intraoral scanner (TRIOS 4; 3Shape; Copenhagen, Denmark) to generate a reference and an experimental mesh, respectively. Thirty experimental standard tesselletion language (STL) files were superimposed onto the reference model's STL using the core features of six superimposition methods, creating the following groups: initial automated pre-alignment (GI), landmark-based alignment (G1), partial area-based alignment (G2), entire area-based alignment (G3), and double alignment combining landmark-based alignment with entire model area-based alignment (G4 ) or the scan bodies' surface (G5). The groups underwent various alignment variations, resulting in sixteen subgroups (n = 30). The alignment accuracy between experimental and reference meshes was quantified by using the root mean square (RMS) error as trueness and its fluctuation as precision. The Kruskal-Wallis test with a subsequent adjusted post-hoc Dunn's pairwise comparison test was used to analyze the data (α = 0.05). The reliability of the measurements was assessed using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC).

RESULTS

A total of 480 superimpositions were performed. No significant differences were found in trueness and precision among the groups (p > 0.05), except for partial area-based alignment (p < 0.001). Subgroup analysis showed significant differences for partial area-based alignment considering only one scan body (p < 0.001). Initial automated alignment was as accurate as landmark-based, partial, or entire area-based alignments (p > 0.05). Double alignments did not improve alignment accuracy (p > 0.05). The entire area-based alignment of the scan bodies' surface had the least effect on accuracy analyses.

CONCLUSIONS

Digital oral implant investigation remains unaffected by the superimposition method when ISO-recommended 3D metrology-grade inspection software is used. At least two scan bodies are needed when considering partial area-based alignments.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

The superimposition method choice within the tested ISO-recommended 3D inspection software did not impact accuracy analyses in digital implant investigation.

An overview of artificial intelligence based applications for assisting digital data acquisition and implant planning procedures

OBJECTIVES

To provide an overview of the current artificial intelligence (AI) based applications for assisting digital data acquisition and implant planning procedures.

OVERVIEW

A review of the main AI-based applications integrated into digital data acquisitions technologies (facial scanners (FS), intraoral scanners (IOSs), cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) devices, and jaw trackers) and computer-aided static implant planning programs are provided.

CONCLUSIONS

The main AI-based application integrated in some FS's programs involves the automatic alignment of facial and intraoral scans for virtual patient integration. The AI-based applications integrated into IOSs programs include scan cleaning, assist scanning, and automatic alignment between the implant scan body with its corresponding CAD object while scanning. The more frequently AI-based applications integrated into the programs of CBCT units involve positioning assistant, noise and artifacts reduction, structures identification and segmentation, airway analysis, and alignment of facial, intraoral, and CBCT scans. Some computer-aided static implant planning programs include patient's digital files, identification, labeling, and segmentation of anatomical structures, mandibular nerve tracing, automatic implant placement, and surgical implant guide design.

Manufacturing of PEEK orthodontic baseplate and 3D-printed alloy components from an intraoral scan

This paper demonstrates a digital manufacturing technique of a removable orthodontic appliance from an intraoral scan. An intraoral scan was made for the maxillary and mandibular arches. 3Shape Orthodontics Appliance Designer produced the virtual Hawley retainer, consisting of alloy components (Adam Clasps and Fitted Labial bow) and a base plate. The base plate design was modified to adapt to inserting the alloy components, which were combined using cold-cured acrylic. The finished Hawley retainer was assessed intraorally. The described technique emphasizes the design specifications of digitally designed and manufactured removable orthodontic appliances. A combination of additive and subtractive techniques was successfully employed to manufacture the alloy components and base plate. This novel method provides an alternative approach to manufacturing removable appliances with computer-aided design (CAD)/computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) technologies. The described process offers a precursor to digital manufacturing of other developed designs of dental appliances.

Effect of the Inter-Tooth Distance and Proximal Axial Wall Height of Prepared Teeth on the Scanning Accuracy of Intraoral Scanners

This study aimed to analyze the effect of the height of the proximal axial wall of the prepared tooth and the distance between the adjacent tooth and the prepared tooth on the scan accuracy of intraoral scanners. Ten working casts with maxillary first molars prepared to receive zirconia crowns were randomly obtained from a dental clinic. Each of the 10 casts was scanned using two intraoral scanners (i700; MEDIT and CS3600; Carestream; computer-aided design [CAD] test model, CTM; N = 15 per working cast) 15 times per scanner. Individual dies of the prepared teeth were fabricated, and high-precision scan data were acquired using a laboratory scanner (CAD reference model, CRM; N = 1). CTMs were aligned relative to the prepared tooth of CRMs by using three-dimensional inspection software (Ver 2018.1.0; Control X; 3D Systems). Data were statistically analyzed using an independent t-test and one-way analysis of variance for between-group comparisons (α = 0.05). The inaccuracy in the proximal regions (mesial or distal) of the prepared tooth was higher than that in the buccal and lingual regions (p < 0.05). The scan accuracy was not correlated with the variables when the distance between the adjacent tooth and the prepared tooth was ≥2.0 mm and the height of the proximal axial wall of the prepared tooth was <3.0 mm (p > 0.05). Therefore, an excellent scan accuracy can be obtained using an intraoral scanner when the distance between the adjacent tooth and the prepared tooth is ≥2.0 mm and the proximal axial wall height of the prepared tooth is <3.0 mm.

Altered reverse impression method involving extraoral digitalization of a verification jig for the fabrication of implant-supported prosthesis by using a complete-digital workflow

The reverse impression method involves the extraoral digitalization of the interim implant-supported prostheses and intraoral digitalization of antagonist arch and maxillomandibular relationship. This technique allows the fabrication of implant-supported prostheses by using a complete-digital workflow. The scan analogs make the reverse impression method feasible. However, this method may not be recommended if the interim polymethyl methacrylate prosthesis does not have passive fit. The present manuscript describes an altered reverse impression technique that involves the extraoral digitalization of a conventional verification jig, which has attached scan analogs. With this technique modification, the implant positions captured using the verification jig are used to obtain the virtual definitive implant cast and fabricate the definitive implant-supported prosthesis.

Accuracy of conventional impressions and digital scans for implant-supported fixed prostheses in maxillary free-ended partial edentulism: An in vitro study

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the accuracy of conventional polyether impressions and digital scans produced by five intra-oral scanners (IOSs) in maxillary free-ended partial edentulism for long-span implant-supported prostheses.

METHODS

This in vitro study involved the impression of a maxillary model with free-end partial edentulism, in which six implants were placed before digitization using a desktop scanner to generate a digital reference model. Conventional impressions (Impregum Penta Soft, 3M) and digital scans with five IOSs (Trios 3 and 4, 3Shape; Primescan, Dentsply-Sirona; CS 3600, Carestream Dental; and i-500, Medit) were obtained. Conventional impressions were digitized using the same desktop scanner. Each digital STL file of conventional or digital impressions was superimposed over the reference STL file to enable comparison. Trueness was assessed by calculating angles and distance deviations. For precision, dispersions of values around their means were also measured.

RESULTS

The mean distance deviation was significantly higher for conventional impressions (454.24 ± 334.70 µm) than for IOSs (ranging from 160.98 ± 204.48 µm to 255.56 ± 395.89 µm) (p < 0.001). The mean angular deviation was high with conventional impressions (1.82 ± 1.51°), intermediate with CS 3600 (1.38 ± 1.42°), Primescan (1.37 ± 2.54°) and Trios 4 (1.30 ± 0.64°) scanners, and lower with I500 (0.97 ± 0.75°) and Trios 3 (1.01 ± 0.85°) scanners (p < 0.001). The dispersion of distance values around their means was lowest with Trios 3 and i-500, followed by CS3600, Primescan, and Trios 4, respectively, and higher for conventional impressions (p < 0.001). The dispersion of angular values was smallest with i-500, Trios 3, and Trios 4 compared with other groups and was highest with Primescan (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Within the limits of the current study, Trios 3 scanner exhibited the highest accuracy, followed by i-500, Trios 4, CS 3600, Primescan, and conventional impressions respectively. IOSs might be reliable for the fabrication of an implant-supported prosthesis. In vivo studies are required to confirm these findings.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Passive adaptation of the implant-supported framework is a challenge when rehabilitating patients with maxillary free-end partial edentulism. While Conventional impressions remain a reliable and validated technique, but IOSs demonstrated higher accuracy, suitable for the fabrication of long-span implant-supported prostheses in partially edentulous arch.

Obtaining more accurate complete arch implant digital scans with the aid of a geometric pattern: A dental technique

A technique to obtain more accurate complete arch implant digital scans and virtual casts is described. In order to obtain complete arch implant digital scans with greater accuracy, short-span intraoral digital scans are superimposed with the aid of a geometric pattern. Therefore, the technique takes advantage of the accuracy of intraoral scanners to obtain digital scans of reduced spans. Two virtual designs of the geometric pattern have been made available online: one for maxillary arches and one for mandibular arches. From these virtual designs, new virtual designs of geometric patterns of different sizes and shapes can be created to better fit different arch forms and implant positions.

Improving the accuracy of complete arch implant digital scans by using auxiliary clips for intraoral scan bodies: A dental technique

A technique to improve the accuracy of complete arch implant intraoral digital scans and the accuracy of their virtual casts is described. Obtaining accurate complete arch implant intraoral digital scans with an intraoral scanner is challenging because of the smooth and movable tissues of edentulous areas. The described technique uses auxiliary clips attached to intraoral scan bodies to cover interimplant edentulous spans with immobile tooth-like geometric references that are more favorable for intraoral scanning. The technique is designed to be user friendly and compatible with any intraoral scanner.

Use of the universal scan template to achieve a predictable optical impression: Preliminary data of a case series study in complete edentulous patients

BACKGROUND

Full-arch IOS scan of edentulous areas rehabilitated with dental implants is nowadays still described as an unpredictable procedure. To improve the accuracy, a universal scan template (UST®) is proposed in this article. The clinician can easily assemble the template with a mechanical coupling, by matching the scan bodies with objects of known dimension characterized by specific markers. The UST® facilitates the scanning of an entire arch on scan bodies, reducing the learning curve, simplifying acquisition movements, shortening the scanning time, and drastically reducing the risk of distortions and aberrations of the scans.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In a case series study on 12 patients, the improvement in the accuracy of the scans with UST® was validated by comparing the STL files derived from scans with and without the guide in place. A titanium bar was produced from each optical impression.

RESULTS

The bars obtained from the optical impressions taken without UST® were found to be nonpassive in the mouth in the majority of the cases. On the contrary with the use of UST® we obtained 12 passive prosthetic rehabilitations.

CONCLUSIONS

The proposed solution may represent a valid method to improve the predictability of full arch optical impressions on implants.

Application of the virtual-fit method for fixed complete denture cases designed on intraoral scans: Effect of cement spacing

OBJECTIVES

To validate the virtual-fit alignment, analyze the impact of cement spacing on internal/marginal gaps, and correlate results with conventional trueness measures.

METHODS

Four dental abutment models were scanned using an industrial reference scanner (one time each), Emerald S (three times each), and Medit i700 (three times each) intraoral scanners (IOS). On each IOS scan (n = 24), three complete-arch fixed frameworks were designed with 70 or 140 µm cement space with no marginal space (groups 70 and 140) and 70 µm with an additional 20 µm space, including the margin (group 70+20). Two types of alignment were performed by GOM Inspect software. The reference and IOS scans were aligned through a conventional iterative closest point algorithm (ICP) where the penetration of the two scans was permitted into each other (conventional trueness method). Second, the computer-aided designs were superimposed with the reference scan also using an ICP, but preventing the design from virtual penetration into the model (virtual-fit method). The virtual-fit algorithm was validated by non-penetration alignment of the designs with the IOS scans. Internal and marginal gap was measured between the design and the abutments. The difference between spacing groups was compared by Friedman's test. A statistical correlation (Spearman's Rho Test) was computed between the measured gaps and the conventional trueness method. A significant difference was accepted at p<0.05 after the Bonferroni correction.

RESULTS

The gaps deviated from the set cement space by 3-13 µm on IOS scans (validation of virtual-fit algorithm). The internal gap of the design on the reference scan was not affected by cement spacing (Emerald S, p = 0.779; Medit i700, p = 0.205). The marginal gap in groups 70 and 70+20 was significantly lower than in group 140 in Emerald S (p<0.05). In Medit i700, it was lower in the 70+20 group than in the group 70 (p<0.01) and in the group 140 (p<0.05). Some Medit i700 scans exhibited high marginal gaps within group 70 but not in groups 70 and 140. The measured gaps correlated significantly (r = 0.51-0.81, p<0.05-0.001) with the conventional trueness but were 2.6-4.6 times higher (p<0.001).

CONCLUSION

Virtual-fit alignment can simulate restoration seating. A 20 µm marginal and 90 µm internal spacing could compensate for scan errors up to several hundred micrometers. However, 140 µm internal spacing is counterproductive. The conventional trueness method could only partially predict framework misfit.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

The virtual-fit method can provide clinically interpretable data for intraoral scanners. Emerald S and Medit i700 intraoral scanners are suitable for fabricating complete-arch fixed tooth-supported prostheses. In addition, a slight elevation of spacing at the margin could compensate for moderate inaccuracies in a scan.

Trueness, precision, time-efficiency and cost analysis of chairside additive and subtractive versus lab-based workflows for manufacturing single crowns: An in vitro study

PURPOSE

To evaluate the trueness, precision, time efficiency, and cost of three different workflows for manufacturing single crowns (SCs).

METHODS

A plaster model with a prepared tooth (#15) was scanned with an industrial scanner, and an SC was designed in computer-assisted-design (CAD) software. Ten SCs were printed with a hybrid composite (additive chairside) and a stereolithographic (SLA) printer (Dfab®), 10 SCs were milled in lithium disilicate (subtractive chairside) using a chairside milling unit (inLab MC XL®), and 10 SCs were milled in zirconia (lab-based) using a five-axis laboratory machine (DWX-52D®). All SCs were scanned with the same scanner after polymerization/sinterization. Each scan was superimposed to the marginal area of the original CAD file to evaluate trueness: absolute average (ABS AVG), root mean square (RMS), and (90˚-10˚)/2 percentile were calculated for each group. Marginal adaptation and quality of the occlusal and interproximal contact points were also investigated by two prosthodontists on 3D printed and plaster models. Finally, the three workflows' time efficiency and costs were evaluated.

RESULTS

Additive chairside and subtractive lab-based SCs had significantly better marginal trueness than subtractive chairside SCs in all three parameters (ABS AVG, p < 0.01; RMS, p < 0.01; [90˚-10˚]/2, p < 0.01). However, the two prosthodontists found no significant differences between the three manufacturing procedures in the quality of the marginal closure (p = 0.186), interproximal (p = 0.319), and occlusal contacts (p = 0.218). Both time efficiency and cost show a trend favoring the chairside additive workflow.

CONCLUSIONS

Chairside additive technology seems to represent a valid alternative for manufacturing definitive SCs, given the high marginal trueness, precision, workflow efficiency and low costs.

STATEMENT OF CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Additive chairside manufacturing of definitive hybrid composite SCs is now possible and shows high accuracy, time efficiency, and competitive cost.

A guide for selecting the intraoral scan extension when fabricating tooth- and implant-supported fixed dental prostheses

OBJECTIVES

To describe a new classification for intraoral scans based on the scan extension and to introduce a decision guideline to choose the scan extension for fabricating tooth- and implant-supported fixed dental prostheses (FDPs).

OVERVIEW

Multiple operator- and patient-related factors have been identified that can decrease the scanning accuracy of intraoral scanners (IOSs), including scan extension. However, the decision criteria for selecting scan extension for fabricating tooth- and implant-supported restorations is unclear. Based on the extension of the intraoral digital scans, three types of scans can be defined: half-arch (anterior or posterior), extended half-arch, and complete-arch scan. Variables to consider when choosing the scan extension include the number and location of units being restored, as well as the extension and location of edentulous areas. Additionally, the accuracy of the virtual definitive cast and the accuracy of the maxillomandibular relationship captured by using IOSs should be differentiated.

CONCLUSIONS

A decision tree for selecting the scan extension is presented. The decision is based on the number and location of units being restored, and the extension and location of edentulous areas. Intraoral scans with reduced scan extension are indicated when fabricating tooth- and implant-supported crowns or short-span fixed prostheses, when the patient does not have more than one missing tooth in the area of the dental arch included in the scan. For the remaining clinical conditions, complete-arch intraoral scans are recommended.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Scan extension is a clinician's decision that should be based on the number and location of units being restored and the extension and location of edentulous areas. Intraoral scans with a reduced scan extension is recommended, when possible.

Trueness and precision of complete arch dentate digital models produced by intraoral and desktop scanners: An ex-vivo study

OBJECTIVES

The study aimed to compare the trueness and precision of five intraoral scanners (Emerald S, iTero Element 5D, Medit i700, Primescan, and Trios 4) and two indirect digitization techniques for both teeth and soft tissues on fresh mandibular and maxillary cadaver jaws.

METHODS

The maxilla and mandible of a fully dentate cadaver were scanned by the ATOS industrial scanner to create a master model. Then, the specimens were scanned eight times by each intraoral scanner (IOS). In addition, 8 polyvinylsiloxane (PVS) impressions were made and digitized with a Medit T710 desktop scanner. Stone models were then poured and again scanned with the desktop scanner. All IOS, PVS, and stone models were compared to the master model to calculate the mean absolute surface deviation for mandibular teeth, maxillary teeth, and palate.

RESULTS

For mandibular teeth, the PVS trueness was only significantly better than the Medit i700 (p < 0.001) and Primescan (p < 0.05). In maxillary teeth, the PVS trueness was significantly better than all IOSs (p < 0.05-0.001); the stone trueness was significantly better than Emerald S (p < 0.01), Medit i700 (p < 0.001) and Primescan (p < 0.01). In the palate, PVS and stone trueness were significantly lower than the iTero Element 5D (p < 0.01) and Trios 4 (p < p < 0.01). Stone trueness was significantly lower than the Medit i700 (p < 0.05). The precision in the palate was significantly lower for PVS and stone than for Emerald S (p < 0.01, p < 0.05), iTero Element 5D (p < 0.01, p < 0.01), Primescan (p < 0.001, p < 0.001), and Trios 4 (p < 0.001, p < 0.01). Significant differences in trueness between the IOSs were observed only in the mandibular teeth. The Medit i700 performed worse than Emerald S (p < 0.01) and iTero Element 5D (p < 0.01). For mandibular teeth, the Medit i700 was significantly more precise than Primescan (p < 0.01) and the Emerald S (p < 0.05). The Trios 4 was significantly less precise than Emerald S (p < 0.05). The precision of Medit i700 was significantly worse than iTero Element 5D (p < 0.01) for maxillary teeth, as well as the Primescan (p < 0.01) and Trios 4 (p < 0.05) for the palate.

CONCLUSIONS

In general, indirectly digitized models from PVS impressions had higher trueness than IOS for maxillary teeth; precision between the two methods was similar. IOS was more accurate for palatal tissues. The differences in trueness and precision for mandibular teeth between the various techniques were negligible.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

All investigated IOSs and indirect digitization could be used for complete arch scanning in mandibular and maxillary dentate arches. However, direct optical digitization is preferable for the palate due to the low accuracy of physical impression techniques for soft tissues.

3D printed indirect bonding trays: Transfer accuracy of hard versus soft resin material in a prospective, randomized, single-blinded clinical study

OBJECTIVES

This prospective clinical study aimed to compare transfer accuracy and immediate loss rate of hard versus soft transfer trays utilizing a CAD/CAM workflow.

METHODS

We performed virtual bracket placement on intraoral scans of adolescent patients to create individual indirect bonding trays. Orthodontic software (Appliance Designer, 3Shape, Copenhagen, Denmark) was used to design the trays, which were then produced using 3D printing technology. Patients were randomly assigned to the hard or soft resin groups with a 1:1 allocation. Subgroups were determined based on the Little's Irregularity Index and distributed equally.

RESULTS

552 brackets were bonded onto adolescent patients using 46 CAD/CAM indirect bonding trays. The linear mean transfer errors ranged from -0.011 mm (soft) to -0.162 mm (hard) and angularly -0.255° (hard) and -0.243° (soft). No statistically significant differences were found between the subgroups or soft and hard resin groups. However, the transfer accuracy of molar brackets was significantly lower in the transversal and horizontal directions. All mean transfer errors were within the limits of clinical acceptability. The loss rate was 2.4 % in the hard resin group and 2.3 % in the soft resin group. The Intra Observer Correlation was excellent.

SIGNIFICANCE

CAD/CAM technology for indirect bracket bonding has been proven reliable in a randomized clinical trial. Both hard and soft resin showed a low rate of immediate loss compared to the current literature. Soft resin was more favorable than hard resin in terms of accuracy and usability. However, the indirect bonding of molar brackets is significantly less accurate than incisor brackets.

In-vitro accuracy of a novel jaw-tracking technology

OBJECTIVES

As jaw-tracking systems integrate into digital prosthetic workflows, their accuracy remains underexplored. This study aimed to evaluate the in vitro accuracy of a novel digital jaw-tracking system (Modjaw, Villeurbanne, France) by comparing its precision and trueness to that of an industrial scanner.

METHODS

Upper and lower typodont models were scanned with an industrial-grade optical scanner (ATOS Q, Carl Zeiss GOM Metrology GmbH, Germany) to produce master scans. The models were placed in a phantom head with artificial joints to replicate five different intermaxillary relationships (IMRs). The 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 mm IMR distances were stabilized by five silicone bites. The silicone bites were repositioned after each measurement. ATOS scanned the whole artificial joint with the models three times in each IMR to assess the precision of the repositioning (i.e., bite precision). The master scans were uploaded to Modjaw. Modjaw recorded the five IMR positions three times each to assess the precision of the Modjaw. Precision was calculated by aligning the scans within the same group, whereas Modjaw trueness was evaluated by aligning ATOS and Modjaw scans. The mean absolute distance (MAD) between aligned surfaces was calculated. The effect of IMR on the MAD was evaluated using a linear mixed model.

RESULTS

The mean bite precision across the IMRs was 7.6 ± 0.53 µm. Modjaw precision over the IMRS was 9.7 ± 1.76 µm, and the trueness was 10.8 ± 1.40 µm. Increased IMRs up to 4 mm significantly increased the MAD from 6.5 to 8.5 µm for the bite precision, 4.8 to 15.7 µm Modjaw precision, and 7.1 to 14.9 µm for trueness.

CONCLUSIONS

Modjaw excelled in accuracy, comparable to industrial scanners and superior to traditional methods. IMR elevation marginally deteriorates the accuracy. Future studies should extend to varied movements beyond centric relations and encompass the influence of intraoral scanners.